Amitriptyline side effects: NHS sets out when to dial 999

The NHS has issued guidance for people prescribed amitriptyline, noting common side effects and specific situations when to dial 999; chronic pain affects around 28 million adults in the UK.

Health officials have issued guidance for people taking amitriptyline for pain or migraine. Amitriptyline was originally developed as an antidepressant but is often prescribed at lower doses to treat pain. Chronic pain affects around 28 million adults in the UK and accounts for many GP consultations. The NHS has outlined common side effects and situations that may need urgent attention. Key facts: - The NHS lists several common side effects, described as affecting more than one in 100 people, and advises speaking to a doctor or pharmacist if they persist. - It reports there are rarer but more serious side effects for which people should call a doctor or NHS 111 now. - The NHS identifies three situations when people taking the drug should dial 999 immediately; one of these is having thoughts about harming yourself or ending your life. - Reporting noted that more than 15 million prescriptions for amitriptyline were dispensed in the UK in 2022–23. Summary: The guidance highlights that most side effects are common and manageable but that some symptoms are described as requiring urgent or emergency attention. Undetermined at this time.